YESTERDAY'S early trading did not make for the happiest end of a difficult week in the markets, and Royal & Sun Alliance got the brunt of a disgruntled reaction to news that a major action from former asbestos producer Turner & Newall will be suing on behalf of their employees.

With one fell swoop the shares fell 14pc but recovered (a little) after the initial shock, yet the insurer is by no means out of the woods yet.

Far from it, the High Court judge overseeing the proceedings suggested that claims will be both numerous and "substantial".

Even with RSA putting aside reserves of #371m for such claims it is likely more funds will be called upon and a rights issue may be on the cards.

That said, the market has seen about as many issues as it can stomach at the moment as most recently Legal & General and Zurich Financial Services have come cap in hand to the City.

The trial is set to start in January and a claim is also being made against a Lloyd's of London syndicate.

But enough of doom and gloom. I did say last week that I would look for a few gems for you and here (subject to the usual get out clauses) are two companies that have caught my eye.

Dyson Group is currently gaining a lot of interest following positive views from brokers Evolution Beeson Gregory who have issued a buy recommendation on the stock. Analysts suggest that the share price could nudge over 170p within 12 months.

The company has been moving away from low margin ceramics production to high-grade materials, away from its traditional markets into "exciting" and plumper new fields.

Looking closer to home Peacocks Group may prove to be a banker. The company offers a very attractive dividend yield and whilst the share price is well off the year's high, plans for the future could help repair the price. Directors say they plan to mix their product range by introducing more fashion wear into basic lines.